A Search for Refuge - Day 4

Sunday, May 31, 2015. The day started almost like the day before it with clear blue and skies, though a bit cooler than when leaving the warmth of Florida, but that wouldn't last for long. The forecast was for a 20% chance of rain and within 50 miles that number turned into 100%. As the sky started turning darker and darker, the wind picking up and the temperature dropping, riding through the serene mountains and valleys of southern Tennessee would turn ugly.

As we headed toward Terry's and Kim;s  - Ed's in-laws in Brentwood Tennessee, it was time to pull off the road and put on the rain gear. Stopped at an abandoned gas station and did the raindrop two-step. One the gear was on, we got about 5 minutes down the road and were met with the inevitable. The cool air and light rain was strangely refreshing. Through a few valleys and up and down a few hills and it was all over.

Now as we were riding on Rte. 24 heading toward Nashville, we saw a billboard advertising free tours at the Jack Daniel's Distillery in Lynchburg, Tennessee. No sooner had we passed it, Ed pointed and we took the next exit and headed for the tour.

Now, you have to understand the irony that the Jack Daniels Distillery sits in Moore County, Tennessee. Like many other counties in Tennessee, there seemed nothing out of the ordinary, except for one thing. Moore County is a dry county. That means no alcohol. Isn't it strange that a distillery on that same dry county makes 160,000 gallons of Whiskey each and every day! Yes, the number is right, I asked twice.

Now, if you're a drinking man or woman, this would be a destination not to miss. Even though I'm not, I wouldn't have missed this for anything. Ed and I took an hour long tour and learned the ins and outs of the Whiskey Business from the Jack Daniels perspective. We were in awe of the sheer magnitude of the quantities of whiskey produced in this relatively small place. And it's the only place on earth where all their product is made, barreled, aged, and bottled. Totally amazing!

Once we left the distillery, it was on to Ed's in-laws for an overnight stay - and we couldn't have arrived too soon. As soon as we rode the bikes into the garage, the skies opened up and didn't stop until we were well on our way the next day. We finally found refuge from the storm. For now that is.

Ed's brother-in-aw Terry was there to meet us. His sister-in-law Kim was in Tampa for a graduation and due home later that night. Well, I can not thank both of them and their children enough for their kindness, hospitality and company during the time we spent there. Terry went over the top to make us comfortable and me feel welcomed in their home. Everything was first class. If either of you are reading this, I can not thank you both enough. It is sure to be one of the highlights of the trip!

One of the more comfortable night's sleep since this odyssey began.

The tally so far - 235 miles today, 3 states and 2 time zones. Not bad for a few days on the road.

The Harley was acting up - front wheel vibrating at highway speeds - not a good sign.

More tomorrow............